Can anyone come up with information on first use of the airfield at Mersa Matruh by either the RFC or RAF pre WW2?

RAF Mersah Matruh.

It will take a bit of time but for starters the following Squadrons: 14, 33, 113, 142, 162, 208, 252, 451, 459, 621.
Also there is a connection between Mersah Matruh and LG07 and 08.

14 Squadron with BE.2a to Ismailia 23rd November 1915 with a detachment at Mersah Matruh, returning to Mersah Matruh on 29th January 1916 after a move to Heliopolis on 6th December 1915.

Ciarain.

RAF Mersah Matruh.

5 Wing sailed to the Middle East 7th November 1915 in SS. Anchises although it seems that the only squadron that arrived in Egypt was No.14.

LG07/08 were Matruh West/Mersah Matruh. "Landing Ground" numbers only used pre and during WW2?

Ciarain.

Hi Ciarain,

Thanks for the info on WW1 use. Very helpful. Where did you dig that up from?

Two very good books; RAF Squadrons/C G Jefford/Airlife and RAF Flying Training and Support Units since 1912/ Ray Sturtivant/John Hamlin/Air Britain.

Ciarain.

Thanks for the pointers.

Now looking for photos of aircraft of the following squadrons which were based (sometimes for short periods) at Mersa Matruh:

33 SQN - HAWKER HART AND GLOSTER GLDIATOR
142 SQN - HAWKER HART
208 SQN
216 SQN - VICKERS VALENTIA
113 SQN - HAWKER HIND
14 SQN RFC - BE.2A
1 SQN ROYAL EGYPTIAN AF - WESTLAND LYSANDER

ALSO

IMPERIAL AIRWAYS - ARMSTRONG WHITWORTH ARGOSY
VICKERS VELLORE
DH RAPIDE G-ADAO

Any photos or pointer to where I might source them will be much appreciated.

Thanks for the info on WW1 use.

The South American river could be your friend! They have copies of Winged Promises, 14 Sqn history until 1945.

Have you tried the various squadron associations?